Michael Jackson opts out of Jackson 5 reunion

Reuters Staff

2 Min Read

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A reunion of the Jackson 5 is not quite as easy as “ABC.”

Michael Jackson waves to fans at a U.S. military facility in Tokyo, as he walks to board a helicopter bound for Camp Zama, a U.S. military base west of Tokyo, to join a fan appreciation event March 10, 2007. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

Michael Jackson denied on Thursday that he would take part in a reunion of the famed Motown singing group, a day after elder brother Jermaine said the faded pop star was on board.

“My brothers and sisters have my full love and support, and we’ve certainly shared many great experiences, but at this time I have no plans to record or tour with them,” the self-proclaimed “king of pop” said a statement.

Jackson, 50, said he was in the studio working on “new and exciting projects.”

But Jermaine Jackson, 53, said in Australia on Wednesday that the clan was working on the music and logistics for a tour next year.

“It is going to be more like a family affair,” he was quoted as saying by the Australian Associated Press. “(Younger sister) Janet’s going to open and, of course, the original Jackson 5 ... Michael, Randy and the whole family. ... We’re in the studio, we’re planning on being out there next year.”

Michael Jackson has not encouraged reunion talk. He did not show up with his brothers to collect a lifetime achievement award in Los Angeles in September.

The Jackson 5, whose lineup is rounded out by Jackie, 57, Tito, 55, and Marlon, 51, as well as unofficial member Randy, 47, rose to fame in the early 1970s with such singles as “I Want You Back,” “ABC” and “I’ll Be There.” The group last toured in 1984, by which time Michael Jackson was a huge star in his own right.

His statement was credited to a spokesperson dubbed “Dr. Tohme.” The publicity firm that distributed the statement declined to elaborate on the person’s identity.